Releasably attached grip device for shafts

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a releasably attached grip device for shafts, and methods of assembling, detaching and reassembling the same. The grip device comprises a flexible body. The flexible body comprises a butt end and an opposite distal end. The flexible body further comprises a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end. The first side end is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end around the shaft to form an enclosed tubular grip body. The enclosed tubular grip body defines an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface of the enclosed tubular grip body is structured to be gripped by a user.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to a grip that is structured to be releasably attached to a shaft, such as a cylinder, rod, and/or the like. In some embodiments, the releasably attached grip device of the present invention is structured for shafts relating to sports equipment, such as golf clubs or other similar devices.

BACKGROUND

Typically, conventional grips are commonly used by individuals in a variety of sports-related activities to provide a comfortable, ergonomic, slide-resistant, and competitively advantageous interface between a shaft and the individual. However, conventional grips are typically specialized to provide a particular feature/function, e.g., to provide a certain cushioning effect. Each type of conventional grip having specific unique features may be better suited to specific types of individuals, playing conditions, or preferred features/functions. The inherent nature of conventional grips typically renders the grip to be permanently coupled to a shaft. Conventional grips, once attached to the shaft, cannot be removed without destroying or damaging the grip. Even if the conventional grips can be separated from the shaft, the removed grip is typically unusable, and the process of removing and installing the grips is laborious and time-consuming as well. Accordingly, conventional grips do not allow for non-destructive customization and interchangeability of grips on a particular sporting equipment shaft. In some instances, in order to obtain a new grip, the entire sporting equipment or its shaft may need to be replaced with another having the desired grip attached to it.

There exists a need for improved grips with the capability to be easily interchanged without having to use tools, equipment, excessive force, or destructive removal techniques, while still being able to be robustly coupled to the shaft. The previous discussion of the background to the invention is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge at the priority date of the application.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of one or more embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of such embodiments. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated embodiments and is not intended to either identify key or critical elements of all embodiments or to delineate the scope of any or all embodiments. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more embodiments in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The present invention is generally directed to a releasably attached grip device for a shaft. The releasably attached grip device of the present invention alleviates the above-listed deficiencies and problems in conventional grips, and also provides other advantages. The releasably attached grip device of the present invention is structured for exchanging, interchanging, and customizing grips used on sports equipment. In some non-limiting embodiments, the releasably attached grip device of the present invention takes the form of a flexible body of material that is structured to wrap around the shaft, e.g., a shaft of a piece of sporting equipment such as a golf club. The ends of the flexible body couple with each other after the flexible body is wrapped around the shaft to form a tubular grip body. Here, the flexible body may be enfolded over/around the shaft along the circumference of the shaft. The inner surface of the flexible body comprises a layer of dry adhesive that will releasably attach to the shaft. The outer surface of the flexible body is gripped by a user. The dry adhesive releasably attaches to the shaft in such a way that the removal of the grip from the shaft can be done in a non-destructive manner, wherein the flexible body can simply be unwrapped from the shaft.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a releasably attached grip device for shafts, and methods of assembling, detaching and reassembling the same. In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, the grip device comprises a flexible body. The flexible body comprises a butt end and an opposite distal end. The flexible body further comprises a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end. The first side end is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end around the shaft to form an enclosed tubular grip body. The enclosed tubular grip body defines an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface of the enclosed tubular grip body is structured to be gripped by a user.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first side end comprises a first coupling portion; and the second side end comprises a second coupling portion structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are coupled via a locking mechanism structured to enclose the grip device.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the locking mechanism further comprises: a locking projection of the first coupling portion at the first side end; and a locking groove receptor of the second coupling portion at the second side end structured to receive the locking projection therein. The locking groove receptor is structured to be releasably coupled to the locking projection.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the locking mechanism is structured such that the outer surface of the tubular grip body proximate the first side end is flush with the outer surface of the tubular grip body proximate the second side end, when the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are coupled via the locking mechanism.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the locking mechanism is structured to form a protuberance on the outer surface of the tubular grip body at a junction of the first side end and the second side end, when the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are coupled via the locking mechanism.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the inner surface of the enclosed tubular grip body comprises a third coupling portion. The third coupling portion is structured to releasably couple the flexible body to the shaft.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the third coupling portion comprises a dry adhesive component that is structured to releasably couple the flexible body to the shaft two or more times.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, a method of reassembling a grip device comprises: releasably assembling the grip device around the shaft, wherein the second side end comprises a second coupling portion structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, wherein assembling the grip device comprises: coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft; and coupling the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion; detaching the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion of the enclosed tubular grip body; detaching the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body from the shaft; cleaning the grip device; and reassembling the flexible body to the shaft by (i) releasably coupling the first coupling portion with the second coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, and (ii) releasably coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the grip device further comprises: a cap element provided proximate the butt end of the flexible body, the cap element comprising one or more attachment portions; and wherein the cap element is structured to releasably enclose the butt end of the tubular grip body via the one or more attachment portions.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the one or more attachment portions of the cap element are structured to be releasably attached to a portion of the butt end of the flexible body when the first side end and the opposite second side end are coupled around the shaft to form the tubular grip body.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the cap element is structured to stretch circumferentially around the outer surface of the tubular grip body.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the shaft is a portion of a golf club.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the flexible body is structured such that a first circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body at the butt end is greater than a second circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body at the distal end.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the flexible body is structured such that a first thickness of the flexible body at the butt end is greater than a second thickness of the flexible body at the distal end.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, wherein the flexible body is structured such that a junction of the first side end and the second side end of the enclosed tubular grip body positioned around the shaft extends along a first direction that is non-parallel to an axis of the shaft.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the third coupling portion at the inner surface comprises a dry adhesive nanofiber layer that is structured to be releasably coupled to the shaft.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the outer surface of the tubular grip body further comprises a protuberance feature following along the axial direction of the shaft.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the outer surface of the tubular grip body comprises an embossing pattern structured to provide friction for a user.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the outer surface of the tubular grip body further comprises channels structured to wick away moisture from a user.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the grip further comprises a cap element that is structured to be removably coupled to the butt end of the tubular grip body.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the flexible body further comprises a cap element proximate the butt end, wherein the cap element is structured to be formed into a proximal cover proximate the butt end of the tubular grip body.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the cap element comprises a hollow cavity structured for receiving a weight component.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to method for assembly of a grip device and a shaft comprising the steps of: positioning an inner surface of a flexible body proximate an outer surface of the shaft, wherein the flexible body comprises: a butt end and an opposite distal end; and a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end, wherein the first side end comprises a first coupling portion and the second side end comprises a second coupling portion structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion; and a third coupling portion provided at the inner surface of the flexible body structured to be releasably coupled to the shaft; and forming the flexible body into an enclosed tubular grip body around the shaft by (i) coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of the outer surface of the shaft, and (ii) coupling the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, coupling the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion further comprises releasably positioning a locking projection of the first side end within a locking groove receptor of the second side end, thereby forming the enclosed tubular grip body.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the method for assembly of the grip device and the shaft further comprises releasably enclosing the butt end of the tubular grip body and a first end of the shaft with a cap element.

In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, a method of reassembling a grip device comprises the steps of: releasably assembling a grip device; disconnecting one or more attachment portions of the cap element of the grip device from the butt end of the grip device; detaching the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion of the enclosed tubular grip body; detaching the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body from the shaft; cleaning the grip device; and reassembling the flexible body to the shaft by (i) releasably coupling the first coupling portion with the second coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, (ii) releasably coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft, and (iii) releasably enclosing the butt end of the tubular grip body and the first end of the shaft with the cap element.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a grip assembly comprising: a shaft; a flexible body, wherein the flexible body comprises: a butt end and an opposite distal end; and a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end, wherein the first side end comprises a first coupling portion, wherein the second side end comprises a second coupling portion; and wherein the flexible body is in the form of an enclosed tubular grip body around the shaft with the second coupling portion being coupled to the first coupling portion; wherein the enclosed tubular grip body defines an inner surface and an outer surface; wherein the inner surface of the enclosed tubular grip body comprises a third coupling portion that is releasably coupled to an outer surface of the shaft and wherein the outer surface of the enclosed tubular grip body is structured to be gripped by a user.

The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present invention or may be combined with yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having described embodiments of the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, where:

FIG. 1A illustrates a lateral view 10A of a flexible body of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 1B illustrates a lateral view 10B of the flexible body of FIG. 1A formed into a tubular grip, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 1C illustrates a cross-sectional view 10C of the flexible body of FIG. 1A, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2A illustrates a lateral view 20A of a flexible body of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2B illustrates a lateral view 20B of the flexible body of FIG. 2A formed into a tubular grip, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-sectional view 20C of the flexible body of FIG. 2A, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view 30A of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view 30B of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view 30C of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view 40A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view 40B of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 5A illustrates an exploded perspective view 50A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 5B illustrates a detail view 50B of the tubular grip of FIG. 5A, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view 60A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view 60B of another configuration of the tubular grip of FIG. 6A, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 7A illustrates a cross-sectional view 70A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view 70B of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view 70C of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 7D illustrates a cross-sectional view 70D of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 7E illustrates a cross-sectional view 70E of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 7F illustrates a cross-sectional view 70F of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic side sectional view 80 of a tubular grip of a grip device assembled onto a shaft, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 9A illustrates a view 90A of a flexible body of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-sectional view 90B of the flexible body of FIG. 9A, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like/analogous elements herein. Where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Also, as used herein, the term “a” and/or “an” shall mean “one or more,” even though the phrase “one or more” is also used herein.

It should be understood that “coupling” when used herein, refers to joining, assembling, or otherwise attaching. In some embodiments of the invention, “coupling” refers to attaching in a non-destructive manner. The use of the word “coupled” or “coupling is not meant to construe any details pertaining to the level of permanence involved in the joining or attaching manner. In some instances, coupling may be a permanent bonding between a set of objects. In other instances, coupling could refer to any temporary or removable means of attachment such as press-fit joints, threaded members, magnetic attachment, and/or the like.

In some embodiments, “releasably couple” may refer to the coupling being structured to be de-coupled, or uncoupled, e.g., in a non-destructive manner. In some embodiments, “releasably couple” may refer to the release of the coupled component in a non-destructive manner. In some embodiments, “releasably couple” means that the components being released will leave behind little to no residue of the coupling material where the component was coupled.

In some embodiments, the present invention makes use of non-woven materials specifically developed to releasably couple objects in a manner such that friction between the non-woven material and the objects intending to be coupled is high enough (e.g., above a predetermined threshold) to mimic the effects of dried commercial liquid adhesives. In some instances, this non-woven material is known as a “dry-adhesive”. One such technology of dry adhesive is nanofiber material. In some applications, the nanofiber material may be applied directly to the surfaces requiring adhesion. In other use cases, a release-treated carrier film or sheet material may be used alongside the nanofiber material to aid in transfer.

As discussed previously, typically, conventional grips are commonly used by individuals in a variety of sports-related activities to provide a comfortable, ergonomic, slide-resistant, and competitively advantageous interface between a shaft and the individual. However, conventional grips are typically specialized to provide a particular feature/function, e.g., to provide a certain cushioning effect. Each type of conventional grip having specific, unique features may be better suited to specific types of individuals, playing conditions, or preferred features/functions. The inherent nature of conventional grips typically renders the grip to be permanently coupled to a shaft. Moreover, the process of attaching a conventional grip to a shaft is unwieldy and time-intensive. A tape with a solvent is typically used to insert a shaft into a conventional grip, in an axial direction, and the assembly is required to dry for a long period of time.

The problems with conventional grips are twofold. First, there is a problem with the interchangeability of grips in the field of sports due to the laborious and time-consuming process of removing and installing the grips. Conventional grips, once attached to the shaft, typically cannot be removed without destroying or damaging the grip. A tape with a solvent is typically used to insert a shaft into a grip and the assembly is required to dry for a long period of time. Removing a grip from a shaft often involves a destructive technique which renders the grip non-reusable. In other words, even if the conventional grips can be separated from the shaft, the removed grip is unusable and the process of removing and installing the grips is laborious and time-consuming as well. Accordingly, conventional grips do not allow for non-destructive customization and interchangeability of grips on a particular sporting equipment shaft. In some instances, in order to obtain a new grip, the entire sporting equipment or its shaft may need to be replaced with another having the desired grip attached to it. In other instances, in order to obtain a new grip, the existing grip must be replaced with a new, distinct grip, which must be installed to the shaft. Second, the process of attaching a conventional grip to a shaft is unwieldy and time-intensive.

There exists a need for improved grips with the capability to be interchanged without having to use tools, equipment, excessive force, or destructive removal techniques, while still being able to be robustly coupled to the shaft. The releasably attached grip device of the present invention alleviates the above-listed deficiencies and problems in conventional grips, and also provides other advantages, as detailed below.

FIG. 1A illustrates a lateral view 10A of a flexible body 100, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1B illustrates a lateral view 10B of the flexible body 100 of FIG. 1A formed into a tubular grip body 101, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view 100 of the cross-section C1-C1 of the flexible body 100 of FIG. 1A, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated, the flexible body 100 comprises a first surface 102 (e.g., an inner surface 102) and an opposite second surface 104 (e.g., an outer surface 104), extending between a first side end 122 and an opposite second side end 124. Moreover, the first surface 102 and the second surface 104, as well as the first side end 122 and the opposite a second side end 124, extend between a butt end 132 and an opposite distal end 134, as illustrated by FIG. 10 . In some instances, the butt end 132 is typically held closer to the body of the user of the sports equipment.

The first side end 122 is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end 124, e.g., around a shaft (not illustrated), to form an enclosed tubular grip body 101 (also referred to as a tubular grip 101), as illustrated in FIG. 1B. It is noted that the first surface 102 may form an interior/inner surface of tubular grip 101, and the second surface 104 may form an exterior/outer surface of the tubular grip body 101, when the flexible body 100 is formed into tubular grip 101 (illustrated in FIG. 1B). As such, in some non-limiting instances, the first surface 102 may be referred to as an inner surface 102 and the second surface 104 may be referred to as an outer surface 104. In other words, the enclosed tubular grip body 101 typically defines an inner surface 102 and an outer surface 104. Moreover, the outer surface 104 of the enclosed tubular grip body 101 is structured to be gripped by a user.

The flexible body 100 defines a thickness function “Tb” defined as the perpendicular distance between the first surface 102 and the second surface 104 at a location of the flexible body 100. It is noted that the thickness of the flexible body 100, i.e., the value of the thickness function Tb, may vary across a length “L” of the flexible body 100, or it may remain constant, in various embodiments. Similarly, the thickness of the flexible body 100, i.e., the value of the thickness function Tb, may vary across a width “W” of the flexible body 100, or it may remain constant, in various embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 10 , in some embodiments, the thickness (Tb) of the flexible body 100 may taper, or otherwise vary across the length L such that a first thickness “Tb1” of the flexible body 100 at the butt end 132 is greater than a second “Tb2” thickness of the flexible body 100 at the distal end 134. The thickness along any given cross-section of the flexible body 100 may vary from one location to another in order to form a variety of shapes for the tubular grip body 101, as will be discussed later.

Typically, the flexible body 100 is the same component as tubular grip body 101, but in the unassembled state of flexible body 100 (e.g., in a planar state, a relaxed state, etc.), in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the invention is structured to be applied to sports equipment in portions that are substantially elongate in nature (referred to as shafts), such as portions (e.g., end portions or grip portions) that are substantially cylindrical, substantially conical, substantially tapered, and/or the like, with constant or varying dimensions of cross-section across the length of the elongate portion. As such the natural shape of the flexible body 100 changes to a shape similar to the cylindrical location of the sports equipment when it is applied or wrapped around, thus becoming the tubular grip 101. That said, the flexible body 100 may be formed into the tubular grip 101 by itself, or without being applied or wrapped around an elongate component.

As discussed previously, the outer surface 104 of the enclosed tubular grip body 101 is structured to be gripped by a user. Here, in some embodiments, the outer surface 104 comprises a soft material ideal for use in contact with a human hand or sports glove. In some embodiments, outer surface 104 comprises a polymer material. In some embodiments, outer surface 104 may comprise a foam or gel material. Outer surface 104 is commonly used to provide additional friction to the user of the sports equipment. As such, outer surface 104 may comprise embossing patterns, cutouts, texturing, raised surfaces, or other means to provide additional friction to the end user. Outer surface 104 may also comprise geometric features structured to wick away moisture from the user's hand(s), such as valleys, grooves, troughs, and the like.

The flexible body 100 further comprises a first coupling portion 110 at the first side end 122 and a second coupling portion 108 at the second side end 124. Typically, the second coupling portion 108 is structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion 110 (e.g., around shaft 190) to form the enclosed tubular grip body 101, as illustrated by FIG. 1B. In some embodiments, the first coupling portion 110 and second coupling portion 108 may be formed of the same material as the rest of the flexible body 100. In some embodiments, the first coupling portion 110 and second coupling portion 108 may be formed of a different material from the rest of the flexible body 100. In some embodiments, first coupling portion 110 and second coupling portion 108 may be coupled to a tertiary sheet of material coupled between the coupling portions and the rest of the flexible body 100. In yet additional embodiments, first coupling portion 110 and second coupling portion 108 may be geometric features of either/or inner surface 102 and outer surface 104, meaning that inner surface 102, outer surface 104, first coupling portion 110, and second coupling portion 108 may be a singular uniform body with no particular distinction between any portion. It is noted that although shaft 190 is not illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C, it may be substantially similar in structure and function to the shafts 390, 390′, 390″, 490, 490′, 590, and/or 890, described herein later on.

As illustrated, in some embodiments, the first coupling portion 110 and the second coupling portion 108 are structured to be coupled via a locking mechanism 140 such that the flexible body 100 forms the enclosed tubular grip body 101 (e.g., thereby enclosing the shaft). In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 140 further comprises (i) a locking projection 112 of the first coupling portion 110 at the first side end 122, and (ii) a locking groove receptor 114 of the second coupling portion 108 at the second side end 124 structured to receive the locking projection 112 therein. Here, the locking groove receptor 114 is structured to be releasably coupled to the locking projection 112.

FIG. 1A illustrates the first coupling portion 110 comprising the locking projection 112, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment of the invention, second coupling portion 108 comprises a locking groove receptor 114, as illustrated. The locking projection 112 is structured to elastically and temporarily deform locking groove receptor 114 in a manner such that a prong feature of locking projection 112 snaps or clicks or springs into place within locking groove receptor 114 (as illustrated by FIG. 1B), to releasably couple the first side end 122 and the second side end 124 of the flexible body 100, to thereby form the enclosed tubular grip body 101. Indeed, FIG. 1B depicts the tubular grip body 101 which has been formed as a result of locking groove receptor 114 and locking projection 112 being coupled together. The coupling is such that force is required to decouple or separate locking groove receptor 114 from locking projection 112. This amount of force is determined to be higher than that which the interface between locking groove receptor 114 and locking projection 112 would encounter under normal operation of the invention.

Moreover, as illustrated by FIGS. 1A-1C, the inner surface 102 of the flexible body 100 comprises a third coupling portion 126. Typically, the third coupling portion 126 is structured to releasably couple the flexible body 100 to the shaft 190, when the enclosed tubular grip body 101 is formed around the shaft. As such, the third coupling portion 102 is provided at all of, or a portion of, the surface area of contact between the flexible body 100 and the shaft of the sports equipment. In some embodiments, the third coupling portion 102 comprises a “dry-adhesive” such as nanofiber material or the like. In some applications, the nanofiber material may be applied or fabricated directly to the surfaces requiring adhesion. In other use-cases, a release-treated carrier film or sheet material may be used alongside the nanofiber material to aid in transfer. Typically, the third coupling portion 126 and/or the dry adhesive component is structured to releasably couple the flexible body 100 to the shaft 190 two or more times. In other words, the third coupling portion 126 and/or the dry adhesive component is structured such that the flexible body 100 may be repeatedly assembled, dissembled, and subsequently reassembled with the shaft, without the third coupling portion 126 losing its ability to couple the flexible body 100 to the shaft, and/or without the dry adhesive losing its adhesion ability.

In some embodiments of the invention, the third coupling portion 126 may completely encapsulate the sports equipment and provide releasable coupling to as much surface area as possible. In other embodiments of the invention, third coupling portion 126 may comprise select discrete points of contact between the tubular grip body 101 and the sports equipment. As a non-limiting instance, confining the third coupling portion 126 to certain areas may allow for easier removal of the invention from the sports equipment, or perhaps be more cost effective to manufacture while still performing the intended primary function of third coupling portion 102.

The third coupling portion 126 may define an average thickness “T2”, such that the remaining corresponding portion of the flexible body 100 defines a thickness “T1”, the sum of the thicknesses T1 and T2 being the thickness function Tb. As discussed previously, thickness along any given cross section of the flexible body 100 may vary from one location to another in order to form a variety of shapes and contact areas for the sports equipment. As a non-limiting instance, varying the thickness across any given cross section may confine the third coupling portion 102 to certain areas to allow for easier removal of the invention from the sports equipment, or perhaps to be more cost effective to manufacture while still performing the intended primary function of third coupling portion 102. In some embodiments of the invention, the thickness T2 may have minimal or negligible thickness in comparison with the thickness T1. It shall be understood that thickness T2 and thickness T1 combine to achieve overall thickness Tb. As such overall thickness is dependent on individual thicknesses T1 and T2 and each may very along the axis of the shaft and/or the circumference of the shaft. The shape and size of the tubular grip body is determined not only based on the geometry of the flexible body 100, but is also determined based on the geometry of the shaft of the sports equipment in contact.

FIG. 2A illustrates a lateral view 20A of a flexible body 200, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 2B illustrates a lateral view 20B of the flexible body 200 of FIG. 2A formed into a tubular grip body 201, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-sectional view 20C of the cross-section C2-C2 of the flexible body 200 of FIG. 2A, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. It is noted that the flexible body 200 and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C. Similar to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C, the flexible body 200 comprises a first surface 202 (e.g., an inner surface 202) and an opposite second surface 204 (e.g., an outer surface 204), extending between a first side end 222 and an opposite second side end 224. Moreover, the first surface 202 and the second surface 204, as well as the first side end 222 and the opposite a second side end 224, extend between a butt end 232 and an opposite distal end 234, as illustrated by FIG. 2C.

Similar to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C, the first side end 222 is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end 224, e.g., around a shaft (not illustrated), to form an enclosed tubular grip body 201 (also referred to as a tubular grip 201), as illustrated in FIG. 2B. It is noted that the first surface 202 may form an interior/inner surface of tubular grip 201, and the second surface 204 may form an exterior/outer surface of the tubular grip body 201, when the flexible body 200 is formed into tubular grip 201 (illustrated in FIG. 2B). As such, in some non-limiting instances, the first surface 202 may be referred to as an inner surface 202 and the second surface 204 may be referred to as an outer surface 204. In other words, the enclosed tubular grip body 201 typically defines an inner surface 202 and an outer surface 204. Moreover, the outer surface 204 of the enclosed tubular grip body 201 is structured to be gripped by a user.

The flexible body 200 defines a thickness function “Tb” defined as the perpendicular distance between the first surface 202 and the second surface 204 at a location of the flexible body 200. It is noted that the thickness of the flexible body 200, i.e., the value of the thickness function Tb, may vary across a length “L” of the flexible body 200, or it may remain constant, in various embodiments. Similarly, the thickness of the flexible body 200, i.e., the value of the thickness function Tb, may vary across a width “W” of the flexible body 200, or it may remain constant, in various embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 2C, in some embodiments, the thickness (Tb) of the flexible body 200 may taper, or otherwise vary across the length L such that a first thickness “Tb1” of the flexible body 200 at the butt end 232 is greater than a second “Tb2” thickness of the flexible body 200 at the distal end 234. The thickness along any given cross-section of the flexible body 200 may vary from one location to another in order to form a variety of shapes for the tubular grip body 201, as will be discussed later.

Typically, similar to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C, the flexible body 200 is the same component as tubular grip body 201, but in the unassembled state of flexible body 200 (e.g., in a planar state, a relaxed state, etc.), in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the invention is structured to be applied to sports equipment in portions that are substantially elongate in nature (referred to as shafts), such as portions (e.g., end portions or grip portions) that are substantially cylindrical, substantially conical, substantially tapered, and/or the like, with constant or varying dimensions of cross-section across the length of the elongate portion. As such the natural shape of the flexible body 200 changes to a shape similar to the cylindrical location of the sports equipment when it is applied or wrapped around, thus becoming the tubular grip 201. That said, the flexible body 200 may be formed into the tubular grip 201 by itself, or without being applied or wrapped around an elongate component.

As discussed previously, the outer surface 204 of the enclosed tubular grip body 201 is structured to be gripped by a user. Here, in some embodiments, the outer surface 204 comprises a soft material ideal for use in contact with a human hand or sports glove. In some embodiments, outer surface 204 comprises a polymer material. In some embodiments, outer surface 204 may comprise a foam or gel material. Outer surface 204 is commonly used to provide additional friction to the user of the sports equipment. As such, outer surface 204 may comprise embossing patterns, cutouts, texturing, raised surfaces, or other means to provide additional friction to the end user. Outer surface 204 may also comprise geometric features structured to wick away moisture from the user's hand(s), such as valleys, grooves, troughs, and the like.

The flexible body 200 further comprises a first coupling portion 210 at the first side end 222 and a second coupling portion 208 at the second side end 224. Typically, the second coupling portion 208 structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion 210 (e.g., around the shaft 290) to form the enclosed tubular grip body 201, as illustrated by FIG. 2B. In some embodiments, the first coupling portion 210 and second coupling portion 208 may be formed of the same material as the rest of the flexible body 200. In some embodiments, the first coupling portion 210 and second coupling portion 208 may be formed of a different material from the rest of the flexible body 200. In some embodiments, first coupling portion 210 and second coupling portion 208 may be coupled to a tertiary sheet of material coupled between the coupling portions and the rest of the flexible body 200. In yet additional embodiments, first coupling portion 210 and second coupling portion 208 may be geometric features of either/or inner surface 202 and outer surface 204, meaning that inner surface 202, outer surface 204, first coupling portion 210, and second coupling portion 208 may be a singular uniform body with no particular distinction between any portion. It is noted that although shaft 290 is not illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C, it may be substantially similar in structure and function to the shafts 390, 390′, 390″, 490, 490′, 590, and/or 890, described herein later on.

As illustrated, in some embodiments, the first coupling portion 210 and the second coupling portion 208 are structured to be coupled via a locking mechanism 240 such that the flexible body 200 forms the enclosed tubular grip body 201 (e.g., thereby enclosing the shaft). In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 240 further comprises (i) a locking projection 212 of the first coupling portion 210 at the first side end 222, and (ii) a locking groove receptor 214 of the second coupling portion 208 at the second side end 224 structured to receive the locking projection 212 therein. Here, the locking groove receptor 214 is structured to be releasably coupled to the locking projection 212.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the first coupling portion 210 comprising the locking projection 212 and the locking groove receptor 214, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Here, the locking projection 212 comprises a thin body projection such that once the flexible body 200 is formed into a tubular grip body, the locking projection 212 is projected to reach a “V-shaped” receptacle in the thin body projection of locking groove receptor 214. As such, the locking groove receptor 214 thereafter is positioned on both sides of locking projection 212. In some embodiments of the invention, locking groove receptor 214 and locking projection 212 comprise materials and configurations conducive to coupling to each other. This may include, but is not limited to, hook and loop strips, dry adhesive, zippers such as those found in food storage bags, and/or the like. Indeed, FIG. 2B depicts the tubular grip body 201 which has been formed as a result of locking groove receptor 214 and locking projection 212 being coupled together. The coupling is such that force is required to decouple or separate locking groove receptor 214 from locking projection 212. This amount of force is determined to be higher than that which the interface between locking groove receptor 214 and locking projection 212 would encounter under normal operation of the invention.

Moreover, as illustrated by FIGS. 2A-2C, the inner surface 202 of the flexible body 200 comprises a third coupling portion 226. Typically, the third coupling portion 226 is structured to releasably couple the flexible body 200 to the shaft 290, when the enclosed tubular grip body 201 is formed around the shaft. As such, the third coupling portion 202 is provided at all of, or a portion of, the surface area of contact between the flexible body 200 and the shaft of the sports equipment. In some embodiments, the third coupling portion 202 comprises a “dry-adhesive” such as nanofiber material or the like. In some applications, the nanofiber material may be applied or fabricated directly to the surfaces requiring adhesion. In other use-cases, a release-treated carrier film or sheet material may be used alongside the nanofiber material to aid in transfer. Typically, the third coupling portion 226 and/or the dry adhesive component is structured to releasably couple the flexible body 200 to the shaft 290 two or more times. In other words, the third coupling portion 226 and/or the dry adhesive component is structured such that the flexible body 200 may be repeatedly assembled, dissembled, and subsequently reassembled with the shaft, without the third coupling portion 226 losing its ability to couple the flexible body 200 to the shaft, and/or without the dry adhesive losing its adhesion ability.

In some embodiments of the invention, the third coupling portion 226 may completely encapsulate the sports equipment and provide releasable coupling to as much surface area as possible. In other embodiments of the invention, third coupling portion 226 may comprise select discrete points of contact between the tubular grip body 201 and the sports equipment. As a non-limiting instance, confining the third coupling portion 226 to certain areas may allow for easier removal of the invention from the sports equipment, or perhaps be more cost effective to manufacture while still performing the intended primary function of third coupling portion 202.

The third coupling portion 226 may define an average thickness “T2”, such that the remaining corresponding portion of the flexible body 200 defines a thickness “T1”, the sum of the thicknesses T1 and T2 being the thickness function Tb. As discussed previously, thickness along any given cross section of the flexible body 200 may vary from one location to another in order to form a variety of shapes and contact areas for the sports equipment. As a non-limiting instance, varying the thickness across any given cross section may confine the third coupling portion 202 to certain areas to allow for easier removal of the invention from the sports equipment, or perhaps to be more cost effective to manufacture while still performing the intended primary function of third coupling portion 202. In some embodiments of the invention, the thickness T2 may have minimal or negligible thickness in comparison with the thickness T1. It shall be understood that thickness T2 and thickness T1 combine to achieve overall thickness Tb. As such, overall thickness is dependent on individual thicknesses T1 and T2 and each may very along the axis of the shaft and/or the circumference of the shaft. The shape and size of the tubular grip body is determined not only based on the geometry of the flexible body 200, but is also determined based on the geometry of the shaft of the sports equipment in contact.

FIGS. 3A-3C depict perspective views 30A-30C views of non-limiting embodiments of grip assemblies, having a tubular grip body coupled to a shaft (e.g., that of a sports equipment). The flexible bodies, and the tubular grip bodies formed therefrom, are substantially similar to the flexible bodies (100, 200) and enclosed tubular grip bodies (101, 201), described previously.

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view 30A of a schematic representation of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 3A illustrates a flexible body 300 formed into a tubular grip body 301 and releasably coupled to a shaft 390 (e.g., that of a sports equipment). It is noted that the flexible body 300, and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C and flexible body 200 of FIGS. 2A-2C described above. Similar to the flexible bodies (100, 200), the flexible body 300 comprises an outer surface 304 extending between a butt end 332 and an opposite distal end 334, as illustrated by FIG. 3A. The butt end 332 may be typically held closer to the body of the user of the sports equipment. As illustrated, the butt end 332 defines an overall width W1. The distal end 334 defines an overall width W3. Approximately midway between distal end 332 and butt end 334 lies an overall width as defined by width W2. As depicted by FIG. 3A, one embodiment of the flexible body 300 may render the grip assembly a generally tapered/conical shape, with the width W1 being longer than width W2, and width W2 being longer than width W3. In other words, a first circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body 301 at the butt end 332 is greater than a second circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body 301 at the distal end 334. In some embodiments, widths W1, W2, and W3 may all be wider than the width of shaft 390. In some embodiments not depicted graphically, widths W1, W2, and W3 may all be only equal to or lesser than the width of shaft 390.

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view 30B of a schematic representation of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 3B illustrates a flexible body 300′ formed into a tubular grip body 301′ and releasably coupled to a shaft 390′ (e.g., that of a sports equipment). It is noted that the flexible body 300′, and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C and flexible body 200 of FIGS. 2A-2C described above. Similar to the similar to the flexible bodies (100, 200), the flexible body 300′ comprises an outer surface 304′ extending between a butt end 332′ and an opposite distal end 334′, as illustrated by FIG. 3B. The butt end 332′ may be typically held closer to the body of the user of the sports equipment. As illustrated, the butt end 332′ defines an overall width W1′. The distal end 334′ defines an overall width W3′. Approximately midway between distal end 332′ and butt end 334′ lies an overall width as defined by W2′. As depicted by FIG. 3B, one embodiment of the flexible body 300′ may render the grip assembly a generally hourglass shape, with the width W1′ being longer than width W2′, and width W3′ being longer than width W2′. In other words, the central width W2′ is lesser than the widths W1′ and W3′ at the ends. In some embodiments, widths W1, W2′, and W3′ may all be wider than the width of shaft 390. In some embodiments not depicted graphically, widths W1, W2′, and W3′ may all be only equal to or lesser than the width of shaft 390.

FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view 30C of a schematic representation of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 3A illustrates a flexible body 300″ formed into a tubular grip body 301″ and releasably coupled to a shaft 390″ (e.g., that of a sports equipment). It is noted that the flexible body 300″, and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C and flexible body 200 of FIGS. 2A-2C described above. Similar to the flexible bodies (100, 200), the flexible body 300″ comprises an outer surface 304″ extending between a butt end 332″ and an opposite distal end 334″, as illustrated by FIG. 3C. The butt end 332″ may be typically held closer to the body of the user of the sports equipment. As illustrated, the butt end 332″ defines an overall width W1″. The distal end 334″ defines an overall width W3″. Approximately midway between distal end 332″ and butt end 334″ lies an overall width as defined by W2″. As depicted by FIG. 3C, one embodiment of the flexible body 300″ may render the grip assembly a generally cylindrical shape, with the widths W1″, W2″, and W3″ being approximately equal. In some embodiments, widths W1″, W2″, and W3″ may all be wider than the width of shaft 390. In some embodiments not depicted graphically, widths W1″, W2″, and W3″ may all be only equal to or lesser than the width of shaft 390.

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view 40A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 4A illustrates a flexible body 400 formed into a tubular grip body 401 and releasably coupled to a shaft 490 (e.g., that of a sports equipment). The flexible body 400, and its components and features, may be substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C. Similar to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C, the flexible body 400 comprises an outer surface 404, extending between a butt end 432 and an opposite distal end 434, as illustrated by FIG. 4A. Similar to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C, a first side end 422 of the flexible body 400 is structured to be positioned proximate a second side end 424, e.g., around the shaft 490, to form an enclosed tubular grip body 401, as illustrated by FIG. 4A. A first coupling portion 410 at the first side end 422 and a second coupling portion 408 at the second side end 424 are structured to be coupled (e.g., around the shaft 490) to form the enclosed tubular grip body 401. As illustrated by FIG. 4A, in some embodiments, the locking mechanism 440 is structured to form a protuberance 450 on the outer surface 404 of the tubular grip body 401 at a junction of the first side end 422 and the second side end 424, when the first coupling portion 410 and the second coupling portion 408 are coupled via the locking mechanism 440. The protuberance 450 is structured to project outwardly from outer surface 404. In some embodiments, the protuberance 450 extends along the length of outer surface 404 in a direction that is generally parallel to the axis of the shaft 490. In some embodiments, the protuberance 450 extends along the length of outer surface 404 in a direction that is not parallel to the axis of the shaft 490. In some configurations, protuberance 450 may be configured as a locating feature to help the user more consistently point shaft 450 in a known direction. This could be accomplished in several orientations and geometries of protuberance 450. In additional embodiments, protuberance 450 may not be a continuous feature, but rather an intermittent feature designed not only to help the user point shaft 450 in a known direction, but also to help a user place their hand or hands into predetermined locations along the outer surface 450.

In additional embodiments, the protuberance 450 may not be formed by or at the junction of first coupling portion 410 and the second coupling portion 408 coupled via the locking mechanism 440. In such instances, the protuberance 450 may be provided on the outer surface 404, separate from the junction of first coupling portion 410 and the second coupling portion 408 coupled via the locking mechanism 440.

FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view 40B of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 4B illustrates a flexible body 400′ formed into a tubular grip body 401′ and releasably coupled to a shaft 490′ (e.g., that of a sports equipment). The flexible body 400′ and its components and features, may be substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C. Similar to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C, the flexible body 400′ comprises an outer surface 404′, extending between a butt end 432′ and an opposite distal end 434′, as illustrated by FIG. 4B. Similar to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C, a first side end 422′ of the flexible body 400′ is structured to be positioned proximate a second side end 424′, e.g., around the shaft 490′, to form an enclosed tubular grip body 401′, as illustrated by FIG. 4B. A first coupling portion 410′ at the first side end 422′ and a second coupling portion 408′ at the second side end 424′ are structured to be coupled (e.g., around the shaft 490′) to form the enclosed tubular grip body 401′. As illustrated by FIG. 4B, in some embodiments, the locking mechanism 440′ is structured such that the outer surface 404′ of the tubular grip body 401′ proximate the first side end 422 is flush with the outer surface 404′ of the tubular grip body 401′ proximate the second side end 424′, when the first coupling portion 410′ and the second coupling portion 408′ are coupled via the locking mechanism 440′, thereby rendering a smooth outer surface 404′, with no discernable protrusions proximate the junction “S” of the first side end 422′ and the second side end 424′. In some embodiments, the junction S extends along the length of outer surface 404′ in a direction that is not parallel to the axis of the shaft 490′. In some embodiments, the junction S extends along the length of outer surface 404′ in a direction that is parallel to the axis of the shaft 490′.

FIG. 5A illustrates an exploded perspective view 50A of flexible body 500 formed into a tubular grip body 501 (e.g., for releasably coupling to a shaft 590), in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective detail view 50B of the detail area A-A of the tubular grip of FIG. 5A, with the observer being in the opposite direction.

The flexible body 500, and its components and features, may be substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C. Similar to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C, the flexible body 500 comprises an outer surface 504, extending between a butt end 532 and an opposite distal end 534, as illustrated by FIG. 5A. Here, the grip device may further comprise a cap element 560 provided proximate the butt end 532 of the flexible body 500. The cap element 560 comprises one or more attachment portions at a distal end 562 opposite a proximal end 561, as illustrated. Typically, the cap element 560 is structured to releasably enclose the butt end 532 of the tubular grip body 501 via the one or more attachment portions. Here, the cap element 560 may be structured to stretch circumferentially around the outer surface 504 of the tubular grip body 501.

Moreover, the grip device may further comprise a weight component 564. Here, the cap element 560 maybe structured to couple to butt end 532, as well as encapsulate weight component 564 therebetween. In some embodiments, weight component 564 is captured within a tubular grip body 501. In other embodiments, weight component 564 is captured within cap element 560. Weight component 564 is structured and sized to introduce a counterbalance to the sports equipment in a way which allows for better performance. The size and characteristics of weight component 564 may vary depending on any given user's preference, the type of sports equipment, etc., and various weight components 564 may be interchanged as needed. In some embodiments, weight component 564 may not be used at all.

As illustrated by FIG. 5B, in some embodiments, the cap element 560 comprises a hollow cavity 560 a which is structured to accept weight component 564 and hold weight component 564 at least partly within the hollow cavity 560 a. In some embodiments, weight component 564 may be sufficiently smaller than hollow cavity 560 a to allow for adjustment of weight component 564 or swapping of weight component 564 to another variation of weight component 564. In other embodiments, weight component 564 may be glued or coupled in place to cap element 560 within the hollow cavity 560 a. In yet additional embodiments of the invention, weight component 564 may be releasably coupled to the 560 a hollow cavity.

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view 60A of a tubular grip 601 of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view 60B of another configuration of the tubular grip 601 of FIG. 6A, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. A flexible body 600 may be formed into a tubular grip body 601 (e.g., for releasably coupling to a shaft), in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The flexible body 600 and its components and features, may be substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C. As illustrated by FIG. 6A, the flexible body 600 comprises an outer surface 604, extending between a first side end 622 and an opposite second side end 624. Moreover, the flexible body 600 defines a butt end 632. The first side end 622 is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end 624, e.g., around a shaft (not illustrated), to form an enclosed tubular grip body 601 (also referred to as a tubular grip 601), as illustrated in FIG. 6B.

Here, the grip device may further comprise a cap element 660 provided proximate the butt end 632 of the flexible body 600. Typically, the cap element 660 is structured to releasably enclose the butt end 632 of the tubular grip body 601 via one or more attachment portions. Here, the cap element 660 may be structured to stretch circumferentially around the outer surface 604 of the tubular grip body 601.

In some embodiments, tubular grip body 601 may be permanently or removably coupled to cap element 660 by tether element 660 b. In some embodiments, tether element 660 b and cap element 660 are the same material as tubular grip body 601 and may be fabricated as a uniform piece. In other embodiments, they may comprise different materials, and tether element 660 b may be a separable body such as a wire, clasp, latching mechanism, or the like. In some embodiments, a weight component may be coupled to cap element 660 or butt end 632 (similar to the weight component 564 described previously). The butt end 632 may comprise one or more attachment features structured to interact with one or more corresponding attachment features on cap element 660 to secure cap element 660 for use. In some embodiments, cap element 660 and butt end 632 do not comprise attachment features, but instead, the cap element 660 is structured to stretchably couple with the outer surface of the tubular grip body 601.

FIGS. 7A-7F illustrate cross-sectional views 70A-70F of tubular grips of grip devices, in accordance with various embodiments. Some users of sports equipment prefer various shapes of tubular grip bodies. In some circumstances, a user's hand may be uniquely sized and their performance and capabilities while using the sports equipment may be improved when using tubular grip bodies which are of a certain shape. The tubular grips, and their components and features, may be substantially similar to those described previously.

FIG. 7A illustrates a cross-sectional view 70A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip 701 a comprises an outer surface 704 a and an inner surface 702 a, with the outer surface 704 a defining a substantially circular cross-section.

FIG. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view 70B of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip 701 b comprises an outer surface 704 b and an inner surface 702 b, with the outer surface 704 b defining a substantially oval cross-section.

FIG. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view 70C of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip 701 c comprises an outer surface 704 c and an inner surface 702 c, with the outer surface 704 c defining a substantially “U” shaped cross-section. Here, the cross-section may take the form of a square with two rounded corners.

FIG. 7D illustrates a cross-sectional view 70D of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip 701 d comprises an outer surface 704 d and an inner surface 702 d, with the outer surface 704 d defining a substantially 5-sided polygonal shaped cross-section.

FIG. 7E illustrates a cross-sectional view 70E of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip 701 e comprises an outer surface 704 e and an inner surface 702 e, with the outer surface 704 e defining a substantially 5-sided polygonal cross-section.

FIG. 7F illustrates a cross-sectional view 70F of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip 701 f comprises an outer surface 704 f and an inner surface 702 f, with the outer surface 704 f defining a substantially quadrilateral cross-section, or specifically, a trapezium shaped cross-section. It shall be understood that the front views illustrated are non-limiting, and that the shapes described may not be constant along the axis of the shaft. For example, in some embodiments, a front view may show a circular shape, whereas a cross section along the length of the embodiment may show a square, and the like.

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic side sectional view of a tubular grip of a grip device assembled onto a shaft, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 8 depicts a side view 80 of a flexible body 800 formed into the tubular grip body 801 coupled with shaft 890. The tubular grip 801, and its components and features, may be substantially similar to those described previously. As illustrated by FIG. 8 , the tubular grip body 801 comprises an outer surface 804, extending between a first side end 822 and an opposite second side end 824 (not illustrated). Moreover, the tubular grip body 801 comprises a butt end 832 and an opposite distal end 834. The first side end 822 is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end 824, e.g., around the shaft 890, to form an enclosed tubular grip body 801 (also referred to as a tubular grip 801), as illustrated in FIG. 8 .

In some embodiments, as illustrated, a junction/seam “J” of the first side end 822 and the second side end 824 of the enclosed tubular grip body 801 positioned around the shaft 890 extends along a first direction “O2” that is non-parallel to an axis O1 of the shaft 890. As illustrated, the first direction O2 of the junction J and the axis O1 of the shaft 890 form an angle “θ” therebetween. The angle θ may occur between the range of about 0.5 degrees to about 5 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 10 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 15 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 20 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 30 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 45 degrees, and/or any suitable range.

FIG. 9A illustrates a view 90A of a flexible body 900 of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention, while FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-sectional view 90B of section B-B of the flexible body of FIG. 9A. FIG. 9 depicts a non-limiting example of a top 90A and cross-sectional view 90B in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, wherein flexible body 900 is not yet applied to a shaft. It is noted that the flexible body 900, and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described previously. As illustrated, by FIGS. 9A and 9B, the flexible body 900 comprises a first surface 902 (e.g., an inner surface 902) and an opposite second surface 904 (e.g., an outer surface 904), extending between a first side end 922 and an opposite second side end 924. Moreover, the first surface 902 and the second surface 904, as well as the first side end 922 and the opposite second side end 924 extend between a butt end 932 and an opposite distal end 934. FIG. 9A illustrates the flexible body 900 when it lays approximately flat. In one embodiment described herein, the flexible body 900 is defined by a width W1 proximate the butt end 932 and width W2 proximate the distal end 934. The flexible body 900 may be a trapezium shaped, with the width W1 being greater than the width W2. As shown in cross-section B-B, Tb₁ and Tb₂ are different wherein Tb₂ is larger than Tb₁. In some embodiments disclosed herein, Tb₂ may be smaller than Tb₁. In other embodiments of the invention Tb₂ may be the same as Tb₁.

A method for assembly of a grip device and a shaft (e.g., a shaft such as 390, 490, 590, 890) will now be described, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. First, an inner surface (e.g., 102, 202, and/or the like) of a flexible body (e.g., a flexible body 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, and/or 900) is positioned proximate an outer surface of the shaft e.g., a shaft such as 390, 490, 590, 890). Next, the flexible body (e.g., a flexible body 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, and/or 900) is formed into an enclosed tubular grip body (e.g., 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701, 801, and/or 901) around the shaft (e.g., a shaft such as 390, 490, 590, 890) by (i) coupling the third coupling portion (e.g., 126, 226, etc.) at the inner surface (e.g., 102, 202, etc.) of the flexible body 100-900 to at least a portion of the outer surface (e.g., 104, 204, etc.) of the shaft, and (ii) coupling the first coupling portion (e.g., 110, 210, etc.) and the second coupling portion (e.g., 108, 208, etc.). Here, in some instances, a locking projection (e.g., 112, 212, etc.) of the first side end (e.g., 122, 222, etc.) may be releasably positioned within a locking groove receptor (e.g., 114, 214, etc.) of the second side end (e.g., 124, 224, etc.), thereby forming the enclosed tubular grip body. Moreover, the butt end (e.g., 132, 232, etc.) of the tubular grip body and a first end of the shaft may be releasably enclosed with a cap element (e.g., 560, 660, etc.).

The flexible body (e.g., a flexible body 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, and/or 900) is structured such that the flexible body may be repeatedly assembled, dissembled, and subsequently reassembled with the shaft, multiple times (e.g., for 5-10 iterations), without damaging either the shaft or the flexible body. A method of reassembling a grip device is now described. For disassembling an assembled grip device and shaft, first one or more attachment portions of the cap element (e.g., 560, 660, etc.) of the grip device may be disconnected from the butt end (e.g., 132, 232, etc.) of the grip device. Next, the first coupling portion (e.g., 110, 210, etc.) may be detached from the second coupling portion (e.g., 108, 208, etc.) of the enclosed tubular grip body. Next, the third coupling portion (e.g., 126, 226, etc.) of the flexible body may be detached from the shaft. The grip device may then be cleaned. Subsequently, the same or another flexible body may be reassembled to the shaft by (i) releasably coupling the first coupling portion (e.g., 110, 210, etc.) with the second coupling portion (e.g., 108, 208, etc.) around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, (ii) releasably coupling the third coupling portion (e.g., 126, 226, etc.) of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft, and (iii) releasably enclosing the butt end (e.g., 132, 232, etc.) of the tubular grip body and the first end of the shaft with the cap element (e.g., 560, 660, etc.). 

What is claimed is:
 1. A grip device which is structured to be releasably coupled to a shaft, the grip device comprising: a flexible body, wherein the flexible body comprises: a butt end and an opposite distal end; and a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end, wherein the first side end is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end around the shaft to form an enclosed tubular grip body; wherein the enclosed tubular grip body defines an inner surface and an outer surface; and wherein the outer surface of the enclosed tubular grip body is structured to be gripped by a user.
 2. The grip device according to claim 1: wherein the first side end comprises a first coupling portion; and wherein the second side end comprises a second coupling portion structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body.
 3. The grip device according to claim 2, wherein the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are structured to be coupled via a locking mechanism such that the flexible body encloses the shaft.
 4. The grip device according to claim 3, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises: a locking projection of the first coupling portion at the first side end; and a locking groove receptor of the second coupling portion at the second side end structured to receive the locking projection therein; and wherein the locking groove receptor is structured to be releasably coupled to the locking projection.
 5. The grip device according to claim 3, wherein the locking mechanism is structured such that the outer surface of the tubular grip body proximate the first side end is flush with the outer surface of the tubular grip body proximate the second side end, when the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are coupled via the locking mechanism.
 6. The grip device according to claim 3, wherein the locking mechanism is structured to form a protuberance on the outer surface of the tubular grip body at a junction of the first side end and the second side end, when the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are coupled via the locking mechanism.
 7. The grip device according to claim 1, wherein the inner surface comprises a third coupling portion, wherein the third coupling portion is structured to releasably couple the flexible body to the shaft.
 8. The grip device according to claim 7, wherein the third coupling portion comprises a dry adhesive component that is structured to releasably couple the flexible body to the shaft two or more times.
 9. A method of reassembling a grip device, wherein the method further comprises: releasably assembling the grip device of claim 7 around the shaft, wherein the second side end comprises a second coupling portion structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, wherein assembling the grip device comprises: coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft; and coupling the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion; detaching the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion of the enclosed tubular grip body; detaching the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body from the shaft; cleaning the grip device; and reassembling the flexible body to the shaft by (i) releasably coupling the first coupling portion with the second coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, and (ii) releasably coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft.
 10. The grip device according to claim 1, wherein the grip device further comprises: a cap element provided proximate the butt end of the flexible body, the cap element comprising one or more attachment portions; and wherein the cap element is structured to releasably enclose the butt end of the tubular grip body via the one or more attachment portions.
 11. The grip device according to claim 10, wherein the one or more attachment portions of the cap element are structured to be releasably attached to a portion of the butt end of the flexible body when the first side end and the opposite second side end are coupled around the shaft to form the tubular grip body.
 12. The grip device according to claim 10, wherein the cap element is structured to stretch circumferentially around the outer surface of the tubular grip body.
 13. The grip device according to claim 1, wherein the shaft is a portion of a golf club.
 14. The grip device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible body is structured such that a first circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body at the butt end is greater than a second circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body at the distal end.
 15. The grip device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible body is structured such that a first thickness of the flexible body at the butt end is greater than a second thickness of the flexible body at the distal end.
 16. The grip device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible body is structured such that a junction of the first side end and the second side end of the enclosed tubular grip body positioned around the shaft extends along a first direction that is non-parallel to an axis of the shaft.
 17. A method for assembly of a grip device and a shaft, comprising: positioning an inner surface of a flexible body proximate an outer surface of the shaft, wherein the flexible body comprises: a butt end and an opposite distal end; and a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end, wherein the first side end comprises a first coupling portion and the second side end comprises a second coupling portion structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion; and a third coupling portion provided at the inner surface of the flexible body structured to be releasably coupled to the shaft; and forming the flexible body into an enclosed tubular grip body around the shaft by (i) coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of the outer surface of the shaft, and (ii) coupling the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein coupling the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion further comprises releasably positioning a locking projection of the first side end within a locking groove receptor of the second side end, thereby forming the enclosed tubular grip body.
 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the method further comprises: releasably enclosing the butt end of the tubular grip body and a first end of the shaft with a cap element.
 20. A method of reassembling a grip device, wherein the method comprises: releasably assembling a grip device according to the method of claim 19; disconnecting one or more attachment portions of the cap element of the grip device from the butt end of the grip device; detaching the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion of the enclosed tubular grip body; detaching the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body from the shaft; cleaning the grip device; and reassembling the flexible body to the shaft by (i) releasably coupling the first coupling portion with the second coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, (ii) releasably coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft, and (iii) releasably enclosing the butt end of the tubular grip body and the first end of the shaft with the cap element.
 21. A grip assembly comprising: a shaft; a flexible body, wherein the flexible body comprises: a butt end and an opposite distal end; and a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end, wherein the first side end comprises a first coupling portion, wherein the second side end comprises a second coupling portion; and wherein the flexible body is in the form of an enclosed tubular grip body around the shaft with the second coupling portion being coupled to the first coupling portion; wherein the enclosed tubular grip body defines an inner surface and an outer surface; wherein the inner surface of the enclosed tubular grip body comprises a third coupling portion that is releasably coupled to an outer surface of the shaft and wherein the outer surface of the enclosed tubular grip body is structured to be gripped by a user. 